Executive Editorial

As we turn our attention toward the summer break, time with family, and vacations, we would like to thank each of you for another wonderful season. We are grateful and humbled by the number of returning players, as we know this reflects the trust each family places in our organization to develop your child, both on and off the field.

Our collective goal of fostering a “one club” feel aligned with our core value of unity continues to be a priority. This season, we have taken another step in that direction with our uniforms for the 24-26 cycle. In the 22-24 cycle, we aligned the CU and CUP uniforms, and now we have further standardized uniform embellishments while reimagining our color palette to reflect our history more effectively. For the first time, each of the clubs that make up the rich tapestry of Cincinnati United will be represented.

We want to thank each member who completed our Satori Survey in May. Our response rate was over 50%, which in the world of surveys is a tremendous number and demonstrates the engagement of our members. We are currently analyzing the feedback and look forward to reporting key findings in our next newsletter. Your feedback is invaluable, and just as it shaped this newsletter, we will spend the coming months integrating your suggestions to improve the experience for our players and all our members.

We bid a fond farewell to our graduating seniors who have completed this phase of their experience with Cincinnati United. We will miss you but look forward to your return as coaches or parents. To those starting their first college soccer season in the fall, we hope the lessons learned at the club will be an asset to you. For our U15-U19 players preparing for high school seasons, we look forward to seeing you compete while representing your community in the fall and eagerly await your return in November. For U15-U19 players without a high school program, remember we offer opportunities through our CU North and CUSE Fall High School Program.

For teams still competing in Presidents Cup, USYS Regionals, US Club Regionals, National Academy League, and Girls Academy League Play-Offs, seize these opportunities. We hope you are competing deep into July.

To all our members, thank you for the continued trust placed in our staff to support your child's development. Have a wonderful summer!

See you in August.

Regards,

Blake Decker

Chief Executive Officer

Cincinnati United SC

Share your stories with us along the way by submitting on our “Tell Your Story” page.

Anyone and everyone involved in the FCC club night on April 6th.

We had an incredible turnout with over 750 CUSC players and families cheering on FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium! This is in addition to all the families that we know are season ticket holders who were also able to share in the special night.

The energy was electric as we witnessed a hard-fought match between FC Cincinnati and New York Red Bulls, but the real magic happened before the game, with our players having unforgettable on-field experiences!

From the prestigious center circle walkout to proudly holding both teams' flags, and even getting up close to watch FC Cincinnati warm up, our players soaked in every moment.

Community before competition.

The CU North 2013 Boys Elite 2 and Elite 1 teams paused before their BPYSL League game on April 22nd to show their collective support of the Jarboe family.

Ian plays for Elite 2 and his mom, Bethany, is currently battling breast cancer. In a show of support for their family, Ian’s team donned pink breast cancer awareness socks for the game and presented Bethany with flowers, cards, and gift cards.

The Elite 1 team joined in the presentation as most all of them know Ian and his parents - the two teams trained together all winter and have built a strong bond and positive rapport… along with a pretty healthy competitive spirit.

Unity. Our thoughts are with the Jarboe family.

Congratulations to all of our teams who reached the final four of the Presidents Cup!

Winners

Division One: CUP 07G Silver, CUP 09G Silver , CUP 13G North Academy
Division One: CU North 06B Puma 1, CUP 08B Silver, , CU North 10B Elite 1, CUP 12B North, CUP 13B North
Division Two: CUSE 08B Elite

Finalists

Division Two: CU North 10G Elite 1, CUP 13G South II
Division One: CUP 10B North, CUSE 11B Elite 1, CUP 11B South, CUP 13B South

Semi-Finalists

Division One: CUP 09G Red, CUP 12G South II
Division One: CUSE 06B Elite, CUP 07B Silver, CU North 08B Elite 1, CUP 09B Silver, CUP 10B South,
Division Two: CUSE 10B Elite

Melanie Howard, from CUP 11 GA, was the youth honored hero for this year in the Southwest Take Steps Crohn's Walk Fundraiser earlier in June!

Her family, friends and teammates joined together with the wider community to walk and raise funds for those living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), raising over $78k (as things stand today!)

Melanie was diagnosed 3 years ago and is one of over 1,000 kids being treated at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. One of her goals is to raise awareness and funds to accelerate the progress of breakthrough research and to support critical patient programs.

To find out more about her story and support others like her, you can check out the link here.

Congratulations to all of our teams who reached the final four of the State Cup!

Winners

CUP 12G North 1, CUP 13G King Academy
CUP 05B Gold, CUP 12B Gold

Finalists

CUP 08GArising
CUP 06B Gold, CUP 07B Gold, CUP 08B Gold, CUP 13B Gold

Semi-Finalists

CUP 10GArising, CUP 13G Future Academy
CUP 10B Gold, CUP 11B Gold, CUP 12B Black, CUP 13B Black

Individual CUSC players continued to make an impact at a national level this past spring:

Angelica Alzugaray and Arianna Taylor were both chosen to participate in the US Soccer Girls U14 National ID Camp in Chula Vista, CA in early June.
Additionally, Gael Huguet, a former 2010 CUP player who is now with FCC, was also called up to the same event.
Rylie Morse was invited to travel to Turkey with the US Girls U16 national team.

Congratulations to all 4 players and their families!

College Commits

Congratulations to all past and present CUSC players and families who are either playing currently in college or who have committed to play in the future.

62 girls total: 23 x 2005, 23 x 2006 & 16 x 2007

36 boys total: 27 x 2005, 8 x 2006 & 1 x 2007

MID-AMERICA TALENT ID

The following players and coaches represented the club on June 8th at the Girls Academy League Talent ID Session in Indianapolis:

2010: Alex Gardner, Angelica Alzugaray, Arianna Taylor, Bella McFarland, Ivy Wilkes & Taylor Hamilton
2009: Allyson Canham, Allyvia Canham, Ashlyn Bazile, Atuganile Mwamukonda, Brooklyn Vann & Emma Yeager
2008: Cameron Lorentz, Ella Zech, Emma Yeager, Khloe Cunningham & Reese Brown
2007: Braelyn Even, Emily Steiner & Rylie Morse
Coaches: Katrin Kaarna & Lauren Deckert

REECE HANDS & KATRIN KAARNA

The club would like to congratulate both staff members on furthering their own education. Reece recently completed his UEFA A License and Katrin is now a D license educator.

We know that the whole club will reap the benefit of this fall as we continue to develop our coaching staff in addition to our players.

BECKI POEPPELMEIER

Becki is one of several exciting new additions to the club staff working with our Cincinnati United players. We are excited to announce that she has been appointed the CU North U8-U11 Girls Age Group Director. She just finished a great run with CU North 10G Elite I and also took over CUSM 15G Amiens in January 2025, who she will continue to coach for the 2024-2025 season.

Becki has been with the club since 2007 and before that was a standout player at Centerville High School and Wilmington College, before building a coaching resume that includes NCAA Women's Division I experience.

MICHAEL KING

Michael has been appointed the CU North Girls U12-U15 Age Group Director.

New to CU last season, Michael has coached CU North 11G Elite I, CU North 13G Elite 2 and CUSM 14G Bordeaux. A very impressive young coach, a great teacher of the game and an excellent communicator on and off the field.

RON BRICKLEY

Ron will step up to serve as the CU North U16-U19 Girls Age Group Director this fall, in addition to coaching CU North 2010 Elite I. Ron started coaching with a U11 Lakota United team, and has been with the club since 2007. For the past 14 years, Ron has led the very successful CU North Girls High School Program in addition to coaching teams within the U15-U19 age groups.

KEVIN BOTKINS

Kevin will be moving internally within CUSC, leaving his role as Girls Age Group Director with Cincinnati United and taking on a new role as part of the CUP Girls Academy pathway.

STEVEN BICHLER

Steven and his partner Nora will be leaving the Cincinnati area. Lots of current players and staff across CUSC have been coached by or worked with Steve at various times, and we know everyone wishes him all the best in the future.

QUALIFIED

It’s June, which means post-season play has arrived! Congrats to the teams below that have punched their ticket:

Midwest Presidents Cup in Sioux Falls, SD from June 14-18
CUP 07G Silver
CU North 06B Puma 1, CUP 08B Silver, CU North 10B Elite 1

Midwest Regional Championships in Overland Park & Olathe, KS from June 21-26
CUP 05B Gold

NAL playoffs in Hammonton, NJ from June 15-19
CUP 05B Gold
CUP 07B Gold
CUP 08B Gold
CUP 09B Gold
CUP 10B Black

US Club Midwest Regionals in Chicago, IL from June 14-17
CUP 09B Silver

The Girls Academy have confirmed their Champions League qualification for the 3rd consecutive season. Learn more here.

We appreciate every one of our members and families at Cincinnati United Soccer Club

We try our best to include as many diverse stories of success, both on and off the field, but would like to ask for your help. If you would like to nominate an individual or a group for the next edition, please email content@cincinnatiunitedsc.com.

You can also visit the 'Tell Your Story' page to submit media.

Coaches Corner

Every season we feature an interview with one of our fantastic staff members. For this edition we have focused on Chris Plesa.

Name: Christopher Plesa

Place of Birth: Weirton, West Virginia

Tell us about your life away from the field:

Away from the field I am a schoolteacher, husband, and father of two girls (14 and 16). My daughters are into theatre, music, and performing, and are both black belts in Tae Kwon Do. When I am not coaching, I am supporting them in their activities and interests. I have been teaching 5th and 6th grade in the Lakota School District for over 20 years with a focus in science and math.

I live in a bilingual household as my wife was born in Mexico and came to the U.S. as an adult. My family enjoys the diversity and uniqueness that our two cultures have brought to our marriage and family life. When I am not coaching or teaching, I spend my time outdoors with my family engaging in activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and boating. We live in Lebanon, Ohio and enjoy the small-town life as well as the many local farms. During the winter I enjoy skiing and staying active in other outdoor activities.

When did you start coaching?

I started coaching in 1998 while still attending college working for the Oakwood Recreational Soccer program. After college, I entered the classroom working for the Lakota School District in 2001. The following year I started coaching for Monroe SAY Soccer and then for Lakota United, one of the founding clubs of Cincinnati United SC.

When did you join the club?

I have been with the club since its inception. I was coaching/working with Lisa Hauser, Neil Bradford, Brian Page, and Andy Szuchs at Lakota United when the decision was made to join several other local clubs to form what is today Cincinnati United Soccer Club. I was asked to remain on staff and have been here ever since.

Teams you coach this season?

In the 2023/2024 season I coached CUP 12G North II, CUP 13G North Academy, and CULM 15G Alaves

What inspired you to become a coach?

Being a schoolteacher, I am passionate about helping my students reach their fullest potential and find a love for learning. This passion exists in my love of soccer, and I wanted to be able to share that love and passion with the game's future players. I look to create life-long students of the game.

What's your best memory on and off the field at the club?

I have several fantastic memories, being with the club for so long. One of the best memories on and around the pitch goes back to the early years of preseason club camp where we had skill challenges throughout the week for our players. It was always fun to watch the players work hard to meet those skill challenges. It was also fun to watch the coaches bring out their competitive nature competing against each other (all in fun) showing off their skills for the players.

A second is the coach's game where the staff were placed on two opposing teams to compete against one another for charity. Prior to the game and during half time, we worked with members from TOPSoccer, an organization that focuses on individuals with special needs. Watching our players and staff work and play together with TOPSoccer was an absolute joy.

My last unbelievable memory was attending USYSA's 2017 National Championship in Frisco Texas. I was fortunate enough to be included in the 2002 age group staff. That year our 2000G CUP Gold team were crowned champions and the 02G CUP Gold team were finalists. The atmosphere, matches, and camaraderie among the coaching staffs from all over the country was unbelievable.

Each season we focus on a CUPGOAL, and this time around it is UNITY. How does that translate to the youth soccer world for you?

Unity means to me standing together as one club and striving to work together for the growth and success of every player, team, and age group that wears our badge. Unity is having pride in what we are as a club and sticking to our developmental philosophy and the key player qualities that we work to instill in our youth players.

Funniest moment as a coach?

My funniest moment as a coach was having a group of players that I had coached for 3 years and were moving on to other avenues of life cover me completely in "silly string" after our final competition up in Toledo during the Memorial Day Tournament hosted by Pacesetter Soccer.

Is there anyone on your coaching journey who you identify with as a mentor?

I have had the pleasure of working with so many great coaches over my time with the club. I have managed to learn from some of the best. Certainly, Brian Page is one name that comes to mind when I think about mentors. He brought me into Lakota United and supported me in my early years of growth as a coach. Observing and learning from Paul Rockwood has been an amazing experience and privilege in my coaching career.

I have to say that Bobby Puppione, long time CUP Girls Director and currently Virginia Development Academy director, has been and continues to be one of the greatest mentors for me. Bobby's love of coaching, passion for the game, and knowledge for training youth players is something that I strive to emulate every time I step onto the pitch.

What one piece of advice would you have to someone who is considering starting out on their coaching journey?

One piece of advice I would give is to be open-minded and always be willing to offer as well as accept support in your coaching journey. No matter your level of experience, there is always something to be gained by bouncing ideas off those that share your passion for the game. Keep a journal and spend time observing coaches at training and at matches. Keep the game fun for you and your players.

Who is your favorite soccer team apart from Cincinnati United 🙂?

Newcastle United F.C., and A.C. Milan.

Apart from soccer, what other sports do you like to watch or play?

Playing sports, I enjoy snow skiing, golf, and tennis. I watch some NFL football and I enjoy going to ballparks to watch live baseball games.

Tell us a 'fun fact' about yourself that very few people know?

I am very good at finding "lost" or misplaced items.

My dad taught me to yo-yo on the steps in front of the Capital Building in Washington DC to help occupy myself while we toured DC when I was in 2nd grade. On that same trip I learned a valuable lesson about my family and how they can extend a joke throughout your entire life. That lesson ended with me having one of the finest napkin ring collections ever. I received a set of napkin rings for every holiday and birthday from 2nd grade up to the day I got married at the age of 27 for asking a question about the dining setup at a very fancy restaurant in DC.

Partners on the Pitch

We are grateful to all of our partners. In this edition we have chosen to recognize our partnership with Soccer Village and we would like to take this opportunity to thank all of their staff for their continued service.

Founded in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1984, Soccer Village embodies the spirit of the local soccer community. From humble beginnings to becoming one of the largest soccer specialty retailers in the United States, Soccer Village has expanded its reach across Cincinnati, Columbus, Cleveland, Indianapolis, Louisville, and Nashville. Through Team Hub Sports, Soccer Village revolutionizes the process of ordering club uniforms, ensuring efficiency and quality for partners like Cincinnati United. For over 40 years, Soccer Village has been a cornerstone of the soccer landscape, providing uniforms, footwear, and equipment to players at all levels of the game.

The relationship between Cincinnati United and Soccer Village spans over three decades, dating back to the club's founding years. Through various iterations, Soccer Village has been a steadfast supporter, supplying the club and its founding members with top-notch gear and unparalleled service.

As Cincinnati United gears up for the 2024/2025 season, the club is excited to continue its partnership with Soccer Village. With the upcoming uniform fittings, families can expect the same high level of service and attention to detail that has defined the relationship between the two entities.

Soccer Village will continue to supply our families with uniforms and fan apparel, but also support our programming through a new jersey sponsorship which will be seen on kits starting this Fall.

With both the European Championships and Copa America tournaments about to start, we know who we’d recommend you visit if you’re looking for a jersey to enjoy the summer of soccer ahead 😊

Visit www.soccervillage.com to learn more.

Unsung Heroes

Put simply, our club could not survive without the work of so many that goes unnoticed. In this edition we will focus on the role of the Team Admin (TA).

In the busy and active world of CUSC, the TA's are a group of individuals who operate behind the scenes, ensuring that the gears of the club continue to turn smoothly. Their dedication and tireless efforts often go unnoticed but are absolutely essential to the functioning of the club.

At the heart of every team within CUSC lies an individual TA, a dedicated volunteer who selflessly commits their time and energy to support the players, coaches, and families associated with the team. Their responsibilities are as varied as they are crucial, encompassing a wide range of tasks that span from logistical coordination to administrative duties and everything in between. There are too many to name here, and they all deserve their own moment in the limelight, so if you haven't done so recently, ensure you thank the TA on your team/s.

One of the primary roles of the TA is to serve as the logistical backbone of the team. This includes tasks such as transporting equipment like benches and pop-up tents to and from the field, ensuring that players have access to necessary gear and facilities. They also handle the financial aspects of the team, managing a team bank account, collecting money for various expenses, and handling payments for items such as referee fees, tournament entries, and equipment purchases.

In addition to logistical and financial responsibilities, TA's also serve as the primary point of contact for communication within the team and with other parents. They play a crucial role in disseminating information about game schedules, practice times, and any other relevant updates. Moreover, they often act as a liaison between families and coaching staff, providing support, guidance, and assistance as needed.

The role of a TA is multifaceted and demanding, requiring a diverse skill set and a willingness to adapt to ever-changing circumstances. From organizing team social events and coordinating travel arrangements for out-of-town tournaments to managing player cards and ensuring compliance with league regulations, Team Admins truly do whatever it takes to ensure the success and cohesion of the team.

Behind the scenes, the administrative side of CUSC is led by a dedicated team of individuals, including Lisa Hausser, Director of Member Services, and supported by Jess Anderson, Christy Lillis, Jaimee Wilcox, David Yungblut, and Tiffany Bruce. These individuals, who now play pivotal roles in guiding and supporting TA's, all began their CUSC journey as volunteers as well, embodying the club's ethos of community and service.

Looking ahead, CUSC is committed to continuously improving and supporting its Team Admins. With advancements in software and technology, the club aims to streamline and simplify the administrative tasks associated with the role, making the lives of TA's easier and more efficient.

To those who have served as TA's in the past and to those who will take on the role in the future, we extend our deepest gratitude and appreciation. Your dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to the club and its players are truly the backbone of Cincinnati United Soccer Club.

If you are interested in becoming a Team Admin for the upcoming fall season, please reach out to lhausser@cincinnatiunitedsc.com.

Where are they now?

Our leadership is determined to improve the unity and engagement we foster between the club and its countless Alumni. This edition we focus on Chris O'Neal.

In the history of the club, few have left as lasting an impact as Coach Chris O'Neal. Originally from Altanta, Chris joined CUP from Vestavia Hills Soccer Club (Alabama) in December 2014, O'Neal began his tenure as Assistant Director of Coaching before swiftly rising to the role of Director of Coaching (DOC) within six months, a role he served in for 3.5 years.

During his time at CUP, O'Neal's guidance and mentorship shaped countless players and coaches. His dedication to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of excellence laid the groundwork for success both on and off the field. As he moved on to Sporting KC as their U15 Head Coach in August 2018, O'Neal carried with him the values instilled during his time at CUP. He later moved onto focus on the U17 age group.

Throughout his coaching journey, O'Neal continued to exemplify the ethos of CUP, earning accolades such as the Elite Formation Coaching License from the French Football Federation as well as working with US Youth National Teams. Now, as he coaches with Inter Miami as their U17 Coach, we extend our gratitude for his unwavering commitment and wish him continued success.

On behalf of Cincinnati United Premier and the players whose lives he has touched, we thank Coach Chris O'Neal for his invaluable contributions and wish him the best in all his future endeavors.

What's next?

Here are some of the key dates on the CUSC calendar over the next 3 months:

August 5th- All Coaches Meeting
August 6th, 7th & 8th- CU North camp, CU Southeast camp & CUP Training begins
August 12th- CU Juniors begins
August 18th- CU Friendlies Festival
August 23rd, 24th & 25th- Party on the Pitch tournament
September 14th & 15th- Bradford Cup

Thank you for reading this edition of our newsletter.

We look forward to sharing more in September! If you want to share content with us at any time you can visit our 'Tell Your Story' page. Visit our News page to learn more about the club or catch up on any newsletter you missed.

Executive Editorial

Contents

Celebrating Success